We believe that:
- Mental and neuro health are the foundation for everything.
- Technology can solve unsolvable challenges.
- Market-driven approach is key to unlocking substantial business opportunities.
We believe in alignment between
people, ideas, technology, and timing
Investing in startups transforming the future of neuro and mental health, we go beyond: partner early, get hands-on, and turn potential into reality.
Philosophy
We believe in serendipity, the interplay of
chance and choice, redefining the future
Strategy
Shaping the future of neuro and mental health
Our strategy goes beyond just providing capital; we dive in from the start, co-develop strategies and stand
shoulder to shoulder with founders, transforming neuro and mental health.
Invest Early
We partner with startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, where we can make the most impact from the very beginning, helping founders lay a solid foundation for success.
Roll up our sleeves
We don't just invest. We're active partners, working closely with our founders to co-develop strategies, navigate challenges, mitigate risks, and celebrate successes together. This approach led to a 5X return in 2.5 years at HealthYA Ventures.
Focus on Mental and Neuro
We invest exclusively in early stage tech driven startups that are solving major challenges in Neuro and Mental Health. This focus allows us to bring unparalleled expertise and resources to the table.
Israeli origins, US market
We are deeply rooted in both the US and Israeli ecosystems, with access to unique dealflow, resources, network, and opportunities when it matters the most. Post October 7, Israel transformed into a sandbox for innovative technologies in mental and neuro health.
TEAM
We don't just write checks
We are a team of experienced entrepreneurs and investors deeply committed to the success of our portfolio companies. With a track record of investing in, co-founding, and mentoring numerous Israeli startups on their journey to the U.S. market, our strategy is built on hands-on experience and deep industry insights.
Avi Yaron
Israel, Founding Partner
Avi is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and mentor, with a unique blend of expertise in technology, neuroscience, strategic planning and execution. He provides the strategic and hands-on guidance and operational support that founders need to successfully navigate the complex landscape of neuro and mental health tech.
After being diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor (over 20 years ago), Avi invented and developed a groundbreaking technology that saved his life and the lives of many others. He went on to found and successfully lead Visionsense , which was later acquired by Medtronic for $75M. He was also a co-founder and CEO of Joy Ventures and a co-founder and GP of HealthYA Ventures, each managed $50M in assets, with HealthYA achieving a 5X return in 2.5 years by leveraging his deep industry expertise, strategic foresight, and unique risk mitigation strategy.
Avi is a former Lieutenant in Israeli Military Intelligence (8200) and a member of the 8400 cohort, holds a BSCEE in Electrical Engineering from Tel Aviv University, and MSM International Executive Management Program from Questrom School of Business, Boston University.
Dr. Maria Blekher
NYC, Founding Partner
Dr. Maria is a behavioral scientist, investor, and entrepreneur with deep expertise in mental health tech , consumer behavior, and go-to-market strategies. Her strategic insight and hands-on approach have been key to early stage startups entering the American market. Her role goes beyond strategy, as mentor and a true partner to the founders she works with.
Based in NYC, Maria has been deeply involved in the Israeli-NYC startup ecosystem, spending over five years as the Founding Director of the YU Innovation Lab , leading a launch pad for early-stage Israeli startups, developing a strong network of founders, experts, industry partners, investors, and business talent. She is a strategic advisor to initiatives in the space of mental health tech, including the MyWhat If Foundation and MindGuard, serves on the advisory board of 97212 Ventures, and mentors in organizations that promote entrepreneurship and women in tech.
Maria is a speaker on topics related to technology in mental health, holds an MBA and a PhD from Ben Gurion University and was a visiting scholar at NYU’s Stern School of Business.
Learn more about Maria:
PORTFOLIO | Coming soon
Visionary Founders, Disruptive Startups, Major
Unmet Needs
Startups in our portfolio are developing personalized, predictive, and preventative solutions, pioneering the
future of neuro and mental health. Investing in visionary founders and outstanding teams, converging science
and technology to solve major unmet needs in the US market.
CONNECT
Join Us on This Journey
We are building a consortium of forward-thinking LPs, partners, and innovators who share our passion for transforming neuro and mental health. Whether you’re looking to invest, collaborate, or simply learn more, we’d love to hear from you.
